An author whose debut work landed on the New York Times bestseller list and a 14-year-old determined not to let multiple sclerosis get her down spoke with such conviction at Women on the Move, the annual luncheon put on by Colorado chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society[2], that the 400 guests responded by writing checks totalling $115,000. The money will be used for research, education and patient services.

Cami Walker[3], whose book, “29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life,” began a worldwide movement, shared that she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2006 — three weeks after returning from her honeymoon. She awoke with blurred vision and “immediately knew something was terribly wrong; I saw doctor right away and when I was told it was MS, my first reaction was complete and total panic.”

The disease hit her hard. Two years later, “I was in trouble, my marriage was under great strain and basically everything was going downhill. I called a friend, hoping for a pity party, and she told me to stop thinking of myself. Stop thinking of myself? How could I not?
“But her suggestion was that I reach outside myself by giving a gift every day for a month. So I did, and you know what? When you focus on giving and gratitude, your life expands.”

The luncheon at the Marriott City Center also featured remarks by Heather Craig, who was 14 when she learned, earlier this year, that she had multiple sclerosis. “When I was diagnosed, I was really sad … mostly because I didn’t know much about it. I really don’t like having it, but it’s not going to stop me. I’ll get through it. I still snowboard, play volleyball and take advanced placement classes. I’m not going to let it change who I am and what I want to do with my life.”

“Heather is an amazing young woman,” said her dad, Craig, who joined her at the podium. “We are proud of her strength and her willingness to talk about it.” Devastating as the diagnosis was, he added, hope is what keeps the family going.

“Hope is priceless — but it can be bought, so please give and give generously.”

Carrie Nolan, president of the National MS Society’s Colorado chapter, introduced the children of the late Joanie Hartman, founder of Women on the Move and a longtime chapter board member and supporter. Hartman’s son, David, announced that the family was giving a $10,000 challenge grant in her memory; a second $10,000 gift was given by one of Hartman’s friends, Florida businessman Ralph Holden.